Episode 225 – Burn the Quran vs. terrorism: what is the connection?
Many value freedom of expression and speech as one of the pillars of liberal, democratic societies. These are hard-won rights that many will defend to the nth degree (Voltaire wrote something along these lines: “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it”). So, what do we do when what is sold as freedom of expression includes burning a copy of the Quran? Incidents along these lines have led to massive protests throughout the Muslim world, and the Swedish security service SAEPO now says its nation is a ‘prioritised’ terrorism target because of these actions. Borealis looks into what this all means.
Quran burned at another tiny protest in Sweden’s capital (msn.com)
What’s Happening With the Quran Burnings in Sweden? – The New York Times (nytimes.com)
Sweden riots over Quran burning: What is happening? | Explainer News | Al Jazeera
By Phil Gurski
Phil Gurski is the President and CEO of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Ltd. Phil is a 32-year veteran of CSE and CSIS and the author of six books on terrorism.
